labrador in circle

Labrador pet insurance

There’s nothing like being greeted at the front door by a Labrador. They’re always right there to greet you and by your side when you need them. So making sure you’re protecting them with quality pet insurance made by vets for pets is so important.

 


What's covered in this page:

  • Vets describe the common health issues for Labradors
  • Tips on choosing the right dog insurance covers for your Labradors
  • Understanding Vets Choice insurance for Labradors

 

Common health issues for Labradors

Australian vets have told us the most common accidents and illnesses for Labradors. Even the beloved Labrador is often prone to several health conditions.

Hip dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is another common congenital issue that arises in Labradors as they grow. Hip dysplasia ranges in severity and can require x-rays or other joint scans to diagnose. Treatments range from dietary changes, to medication, or surgery in more severe cases and can cost between $5,000 and $7,000.

Do we cover it?

Pro policy - Yes  

Elite policy - Yes  

Cancer

Cancer is similar in dogs as it is in humans. Lymphoma, melanoma, and even breast cancer can develop in dogs. About 10% of cases presented result or can be treated by surgery. Abdominal cancers could present as emergencies if previously undetected, and costs range from $1,500 to $3,000. However, treatment could be ongoing and costs in recovery can be significant.

Do we cover it?

Pro policy - Yes  

Elite policy - Yes  

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

PRA is a degeneration of the eye causing blindness. There are two forms of PRA, early-onset that can develop in puppies 2-3 months of age, which is often known as Retinal Dysplasia. And, late-onset PRA between 3-9 years. Currently, there are no direct treatments, ongoing supplementation and vitamins are used to relieve some stress of the pet.

Do we cover it?

Pro policy - x No

Elite policy - Yes  

Diabetes

Labradors are more predisposed to diabetes than many breeds. Symptoms of diabetes in dogs is drinking excessively, urinating excessively, and/or losing weight suddenly.  Similar to in humans curing diabetes is unlikely, and treatment is generally daily insulin injections that can be costly and continue throughout the dog's life.

Do we cover it?

Pro policy - Investigation and Diagnosis only

Elite policy - Yes  

Laryngeal Paralysis

Laryngeal paresis or paralysis occurs when the muscles attached to the larynx cannot function properly due to a problem with the nerves which makes it harder for the dog to breathe. Symptoms can include changes in breathing, changes in bark, coughing, or respiratory distress. It is a degenerative and progressive condition that requires ongoing treatment.

Do we cover it?

Pro policy - x No

Elite policy - Yes  

Hypothyroidism

An abnormality of the thyroid gland, which leads to a slower metabolism and general slowing down of bodily functions. There is no cure for hypothyroidism. Dogs must be treated for life with thyroid hormone replacement therapy.

Do we cover it?

Pro policy - x No

Elite policy - Yes  

 


This information general in nature only and does not consider your personal objectives, financial situation or particular needs and is not recommending any particular product to you.

 

Tips for choosing the right insurance for your Labrador

If you are searching for the best pet insurance for Labradors it's very important to look closely at the policies on offer, and most importantly what they include and also don't include, and the sub-limits on some of the accident and illness covers because not everything is covered to the full annual policy limit. 

  • Be aware of sub-limits – While a cheap monthly premium can seem appealing, its more important to look at the sub-limits for cover in the policy to make sure you’re not leaving your pet underinsured or uninsured for conditions their breed may be prone to.
  • Look after your pets teeth – When we think of protecting our pets, we should also protect their teeth. Pets use their mouth for lots of things; playing, exploring their surroundings as puppies and eating. Dental treatments are expensive, and dental cover is an important add-on that can help keep your pets smile happy and healthy.
  • Take advantage of gap payments – Some pet owners tend to opt for insurance plans with no gap payments to avoid out-of-pocket expenses. However, if you take out a policy with gap payments, it can actually help bring down the premium on higher-coverage products. In other words, gap payments are one way to help make the overall cost of your pet's insurance policy more affordable.

More breed information for Labradors

View some more information on Labradors; including Labrador breed information, and Labrador breed traits.

Vets Choice insurance policy features for Labradors

Choosing the right level of pet insurance cover starts by having the right choices available. We offer two choices of pet insurance with the option of adding dental cover as well. It is important to know and understand the common health issues for your breed so that you know what is best to be covered for.


PRO

ELITE

Annual Limit - $12,000

Annual Limit - $15,000

Accident 

+

Specified Illness

Accident 

+

Illness

(Chronic Illness,  Extended IllnessSpecified Illness)

Choose to add-on Dental Covers

We also offer two add-ons for dental, with the levels of cover known as Dental and Dental Plus. Vets Choice Dental covers dental injuries and illnesses such as cavities, Feline Resorptive Lesions (FORLS) and gingivitis, while Dental Plus covers routine care such as dental check-ups, scale and polishes.


Dental

Dental Plus

Accident 

+

Illness

Routine Care

+

Preventative Care